Any help would be gratefully appreciated

http://www.nadaguides.com/Cars/2004/BMW/5-SERIES/Sedan-4D- 525i/Values

@Markw1952 you don't think it just needs Freon put in

This is what the guy said! What does this mean??? Just hit 78k. Wife's daily drives. Clean interior exterior. She goes to college in ******* so looking for something with better mpg. New brakes and pass window regulator, haven't turned lights off for those yet. Ac doesn't blow cold. Other than that, it's been super reliable for her and she drives a lot.

Moody1015-. NO, I don't think it just needs freon, otherwise, he would have had it serviced and sold the car more easily!

By the way, this guy's story doesn't add up.... WHY, do you really believe a 2004 with 78,000 miles....I have 79,000 miles on my 2010 Subaru Outback and that's considered normal even below normal mileage.

Would i be able to take it to a local mechanic and let them run it on the computer and see what's wrong with it??

12 to 13 years is the best time to flip a car, find a more recent model.

YES, you could have it independently verified, and you'll find out what you need to know,. It, I'd still advise a 2008 or 2009 ... even with higher mileage.

My 2010 Subaru Outback Limited even with 90,000 miles would be considered normal, see this, www.nadaguides.com/Cars/2010/Subaru/Legacy-4-Cyl/Wagon-5D- Outback-i-Limited-AWD/Values

A used BMW is seldom a good deal especially one that is 12 years old. They are expensive to maintain and parts and labor prices are extremely high. I would only own a BMW that was under factory warranty. They have more than their fair share of issues. An a/c compressor for this series BMW retails for $1,112.75 and that is just the compressor. Of course we have no idea what actually needs to be replaced, but if the compressor needs to be replaced and the receiver dryer, refrigerant, labor the bill could easily exceed $2,000.

YES, I agree with Bob and as I stated earlier in this post, it's more about time than mileage.... although I know that a lot of people are fascinated by "creampuff cars" that are older with extremely low mileage....The problem with a lot of European cars like MZB and BMWs are the very high cost for repairs.....

Its a good deal if you don't have to replace the compressor. I would have an authorized BMW technician check it out before purchasing it.

You can't be Stupid and own a BMW you have to be able to think rare in today's world, But for those who can think a BMW is just like any other vehicle to maintain. Parts and service selection.. cost no more than other manufactures. Example an AC compressor and condenser can be purchased for less than $500 total whatever lots of misinformation.

Just went and looked at the car, the dude is in the military and are moving he just wants to go ahead and get rid of it... I ask about the AC he says it works just isn't that cool. He said he petty sure it probably just needs freon in it...

Auto_Centric, you can NOT buy a genuine BMW A/C compressor for less than $500, aftermarket rebuilt, maybe, but not genuine. Also a genuine BMW condenser for a 5 series is about $1200 list. Not sure where you are getting your prices.